I tend to agree with these sentiments, but feel that that there is some
degree of balance involved - there is a world of difference between
omygosh over-the-top (AC/Shelby Cobra 427?) versus wow-but-just-right
(Cobra 289)....
Here is an idea - if listers will send in a brief specification (not too
long or too detailed, but basically body type, engine type, engine size,
engine location, drive type, style (modern vs. retro), "essential"
features etc., I will undertake to pass them on to the company as a
cross-section of mainly American views. Of course "we" are only a small
part of the market, but since our age range is considerable there must
be some representative enthusiast customers amongst us....
----------
From: Jurgen Hartwig
To: Michael P. Ohleger; MG List; David Knowles
Subject: Re: New MGs and Minis in America?
Date: 12 August 1997 22:50
At 02:32 PM 8/13/97 -0400, Michael P. Ohleger wrote:
>David Knowles wrote:
>>
>> Did you know (useless info time) that the bodies of the Prowler and the
>> MGF are both the responsibility of the same company (Mayflower)?
>
><<snip>>
>
>> > The prowler is an ugly car. What we need is a Supercharged MG,
similar to
>> > the MGA or MGB, but with a little more Aerodynamic work...and a cool
>> > interior.
>> >
>> I don't think the prowler is ugly. I do think that if Chrysler designed
>> a MG
>> on the Eagle Talon platform, and fitted it with a magnum V-8 or V-10,
>> I'd
>> have to buy it!
>
>Of Course the prowler isn't ugly to children of the sixties. I suppose
>a 16 year old may dislike the design. I would hate to see happen to the
>MG as happened to the Corvette. We Americans get all cranked up with
>size, and power and acceleration and lose sight of the functionality of
>the car.
>
>The Miata IS the world's most popular roadster,period. With that you
>don't see V8 or V10 power 'cause it ain't functional and is
>unnecessary. Here in Virginia you can't drive a Talon or a Sebring or
>for that matter any "muscle car" (is there such a thing anymore) flat
>out without endangering yourself or someone else or your wallet for that
>matter. I have driven an MGF 1.8i in York, UK and the BMW Z3 here(and
>it's definitely a doggy BMW) and would just loooovve to try the MGF up
>the Blueridge Parkway through Thorton Gap at speed.
I have to agree with Michael here; an MG isn't an MG when it has a V-10
or
other large bore engine installed. I think the only large engine
applicable in an MG is a V-8 of Rover or Buick design. But that's my
opinion.
The MGs endearing characteristics are in it's looks, handling, and small
engine. If you have a decently tuned engine and your aren't interested
in
drag racing one of those plastic cars of modern years, then the 4 banger
should suffice. You know the V-8,10 is only good when you peel your
tires
at the red light. and for doing the twisties and back roads, it's more
of
a hindrance than anything else.
There is a word that motorcyclists have for people who don't drive their
car/motorcycle. "Poser"
And that's what you would be if you drive the V10 B through traffic.
Ouch. sorry for the harsh words, but an MG has character and can't be
retained when you build a modern one with all the bells and wistles. If
you want the lightweight, fast, plastic body, cup-holder included,
heated
seat cushion, red warning engine lighted car then go elsewhere. Posers
need not apply for admission to the MG Club.
jay
|